Joint Programs in Social Work | Ph.D. FAQs

Ph.D. FAQs

General Topics

The Joint Ph.D. program is a collaboration between NCA&T and UNCG, with both universities contributing resources. Students are enrolled at both institutions, attend classes on both campuses, and have access to library and parking facilities at each. The degree is jointly awarded, with diplomas featuring the seals of both universities.

The Joint Ph.D. program offers both full-time and part-time options with a mix of day and evening classes. While we plan to expand online courses in the future, students are expected to complete their first 4 semesters in residence.

The Joint Ph.D. program is not offered online. Students must attend classes on the NCA&T and UNCG campuses, but residency is not required once dissertation hours begin.

We understand that graduate education is a significant financial commitment, and students may need to work while pursuing their degree. Employment is allowed, but students must maintain satisfactory academic progress.

Admissions

No, only one application is required. Admissions rotate between the two universities every four years. Currently, UNCG handles admissions. Once accepted, students will be randomly assigned a “home” campus (UNCG or NCA&T) for tuition, registration, financial aid, and fee-based services. This assignment does not affect class locations or faculty.

Applications are available online.

Applications must be submitted online by January 15.

We do not require a BSW. Applicants should have their MSW by the time they expect to start the PhD program. In exceptional cases, applicants without a MSW may be considered.

Applicants must submit:

  • Graduate School Application and Fee
  • Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions
  • Preferred undergraduate GPA: 3.0+; graduate GPA: 3.5+
  • 3 academic or professional references (submitted electronically)
  • Resume/CV
  • Personal Statement
  • Professional writing sample
  • Interviews may be required

All materials are considered in the admissions decision. For more details, see our Admissions Requirements.

Yes, and your scores should be no more than five years old.
UNCG’s testing code is 5913.

Subject to approval, transfer credit for up to 6 credits may be accepted at this time.

Financial Matters

Tuition and fees are paid to the assigned home campus after acceptance. Admitted students will receive this information in May.

You will apply for financial aid through your home campus. However, you will need to list both UNCG and NCA&T on your FAFSA because you will not receive your home campus assignment until sometime in May.

The federal school code for UNCG is 002976, and for NCA&TSU is 002905.

Yes, we have limited awards for full-time students. However, you must be admitted to the program before you can apply for such assistance. Incoming students should always plan to cover their expenses in case they do not receive any of these financial awards.

If you are admitted, we will send you information about program-specific assistance that may be available to you.

We do not require a BSW. Applicants should have their MSW by the time they expect to start the PhD program. In exceptional cases, applicants without a MSW may be considered.

  • A completed Graduate School Application and Application Fee
  • Official copies of all undergraduate and graduate school transcripts
  • Preferred undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher
  • Preferred graduate GPA of 3.5 or higher
  • 3 academic or professional references (submitted electronically)
  • GRE scores taken within the last 5 years (waived for 2021-2022)
  • Resume/Curriculum vita
  • Personal Statement
  • Professional writing sample
  • Interviews may be required in some cases

All elements are considered in the admission decision making process. For more information, see our Admissions Requirements.

Yes, and your scores should be no more than five years old. UNCG’s testing code is 5913.

Subject to approval, transfer credit for up to 6 credits may be accepted at this time.